For the past five years we have run a programme called Zero Carbon Schools. From Autumn 2026, we’ll be continuing this work under a new name: the Green Schools Programme or, simply, ‘our programme’. 

Alongside this, we’re continuing to improve and update the programme content. While the name is changing, the programme itself will still feel familiar to the schools that know and value it — with some important updates shaped by feedback from teachers and pupils. These include more video content, fewer text-heavy resources, a stronger focus on climate justice, and an increased emphasis on community action. The overall structure and support will remain the same.

We’re excited to bring these updates to both returning schools and those joining the programme for the first time.

So why change the name?

Clarity and simplicity 

“Zero Carbon Schools” hasn’t always been easy to communicate and is a bit of a mouthful! It’s also often been confused with other initiatives in the sector, and in practice many schools already refer to the programme more simply as a “green schools” or “eco” project. Moving to the Green Schools Programme brings the name in line with how schools naturally talk about the work.

Moving away from technical language 

Secondly, the net-zero term now has baggage. Rachael Orr, CEO at Climate Outreach, expressed it well in this blog last year. Summarising the latest research from Britain Talks Climate, she expressed that net-zero had become a polarising and technical term, which served to distract from the things that people really care about. 

What matters most to many pupils, teachers, and communities are the local, tangible aspects of climate and nature. Focusing on “green schools” brings that to the forefront and connects the programme more closely to everyday school life. 

Ultimately, this change reflects our aim to make the programme clearer to communicate and easier for schools to engage with. 

From Autumn 2026, alongside the new name, we’ll be launching updated programme resources — while continuing to provide the same high-quality support from our team. 

The programme is fully funded for state schools, and we are now open for sign-ups for 2026/27.

If you’re interested in taking part — whether you’re new to the programme or returning — you can find out more and sign up here:
👉 https://www.greenschoolsproject.org.uk/programme/